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2SLGBTQIA+ Student Support Group
A supportive space for 2SLGBTQIA+ students to connect and talk openly over a wide range of topics.
About
The 2SLGBTQIA+ Student Support Group offers a supportive space for 2SLGBTQIA+ students to connect, share, and support one another.
Each session has a different topic and is typically facilitated by Britt Belyea, Mental Health Nurse, and Alex Vanderveen, Registered Clinical Counsellor, unless otherwise indicated.
Summer 2026 Schedule
Identity and Self-Understanding | Tuesday, June 9
Reflect on identity, expression, and belonging, while connecting with others navigating similar questions. Share what feels comfortable and participate at a pace that works for you. Facilitated by Alex and Sarah Parkes, Registered Clinical Counsellors.
Location: Online. Zoom link will be provided upon registration.
Building a Support System With Chosen Family | Tuesday, July 7
Explore the meaning of chosen family and the people and communities that form our support systems beyond biological family. Reflect on forming supportive networks rooted in mutual care, trust, and a sense of belonging.
Location: SFU Burnaby campus. Room to be confirmed upon registration.
Navigating Relationships | Tuesday, August 4
Discuss how we engage within specific types of connections, like romantic, platonic, and queerplatonic, etc. Explore communication, expectations, boundaries, and the dynamics that shape how we relate to others.
Location: SFU Burnaby campus. Room to be confirmed upon registration.
How to register
Email Alex at alex_vanderveen@hcs1.sfu.ca to register for one or more sessions.
Summer 2026 Schedule
June 9 – August 4
Tuesdays | 11:30 AM - 12: 30 PM
Location: Meetings may be held online or in person. Please see the About section for details.
Interested in Exploring Questions Around Gender and/or Sexuality?
The 2SLGBTQIA+ Questioning Group is a separate counselling group for students who would like to explore aspects of gender and/or sexuality through guided discussions and reflective activities in a supportive community environment.
This group is not currently running due to low registration. If you are interested in participating in the Fall term, please contact the facilitator below to register your interest.
Alex Vanderveen (They/Them)
Registered Clinical Counsellor
alex_vanderveen@hcs1.sfu.ca
Alex is a Registered Clinical Counsellor, who works from a client-centered, trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and 2SLGBTQIA+-affirmative approach, drawing on DBT skills when helpful. Alex aims to create a safe and inclusive space that fosters students’ well-being, self-understanding, and growth. Alex is a 2nd generation Dutch-Canadian person who also identifies as trans non-binary, queer, and neurodivergent. They completed an MA degree in Counselling Psychology at SFU and their research focused on affirmative counselling practice with 2SLGBTQIA+ clients.